It is a little scary when your doctor tells you that you must stop the stress in your life. The fact that it is clearly taking a toll on your body should be a wake up call.

Anyone who knows me personally knows I am person who looks at my body as a temple. I have always love exercise (I know I am a freak), I try as hard as I can to eat right, I pretty much only drink water. So, I eat right and exercise…I should be healthy, right? I found out this week, not so much. I may look healthy to the average person, but to a doctor, they see the signs of stress taking over my body. I know for a fact I am far from alone.

You may be asking what does stress have to do with money? I am here to tell you a whole lot. Here are some examples you may be able to relate too:
Big money, big stress – If you are making good money, that is wonderful. So, stress and money do not go hand in hand for you…or does it? Usually if you are making good money, it comes with some pretty good stress too. In the corporate world, money and stress really go hand in hand. There is a reason the more responsibility you have the more money you make. Then you may get into the situation of not really liking your job, but the money is so good… Then you feel stuck. If you are in this situation, please remember no amount of money is worth your happiness or your health. If you find yourself miserable, there is a way out, you just have to be willing to look for it.

Little money, big stress – Those on the opposite side of the spectrum also have stress. They may love their job, but financially things are really tight. Sometimes it takes thinking outside the box. What are some other ways you can make a little extra money? What are some expenses you really could live without? Work together as a family to make a plan to make things work.

Everyday stress – There are also those that are right in the middle. They make enough money, but they could be happier and less stressed out. I want to make some points I want everyone to remember.

•The most important things are your health and your family, because without either of those, nothing else really matters.
•Take time for yourself – learn how to meditate, go for walks, exercise. A little me time can go a long way.
•Enjoy the smaller things in life - trust me, my kids have me pulling my hair out on a regular basis. However, it’s those special moments when they have me laughing so hard I am crying that I remember years later. Enjoy the hugs and kisses from loved ones, rather than a quick hug, embrace and breathe in.
•Everything is perfect – There is a lesson to be learned from every experience. Rather than wallowing in the misery, try to find the lesson and learn it. You will find the wounds heal much quicker.
I know times are tough, but that is when you learn to appreciate what really matters. Go on, enjoy life…I dare you!